Ken Pow. Photo supplied.He’s a “legend” and has been an advocate for the German language at Ashburton College for close to four decades, but Ken Pow is saying “auf wiedersehen” to teaching and heading for retirement.

He has taught German at Ashburton College for 38 years.

His love and enthusiasm of the German language and its culture has been shared with hundreds of students over that time.

In more recent years Mr Pow has helped the college become part of the PASCH partner schools network, which offers study and travel opportunities to students. He has also established close ties and a good relationship with the Goethe Institut New Zealand.

Speaking during a recent visit to Ashburton College by German Embassy deputy head of mission Dr Timo Bauer-Savage, Goethe Insitut New Zealand language department deputy director Judith Geare called Mr Pow a “legend among German teachers in New Zealand”.

Her long time colleague had contributed hugely to the teaching of the German language and she wished him well in retirement, she said.

Dr Bauer-Savage said he had heard about Mr Pow’s reputation and love of all things German.

“To hear his students speak so highly of him here today is a tribute to the man and shows the respect he has and the great work he has done promoting the German language.”

Ken Pow will also be missed at Ashburton College for his love and support of the game of chess. Retirement will allow him more time to indulge that hobby.

© The Ashburton Courier - 13 December 2018